South west Sydney man, 22, charged with posting online threat to flight

A young Sydney man will face court after he allegedly posted threats online about an international flight from Sydney airport, which he would later board himself as a passenger.

A south west Sydney man will face court after he allegedly made threats online towards an international flight leaving Sydney airport in 2024.

A south west Sydney man will face court after he allegedly made threats online towards an international flight leaving Sydney airport in 2024.

Police will allege the 22-year-old posted a threat on social media about an international flight from Sydney to Manila in the Philippines on December 19, 2024, but boarded this same flight several hours later as a passenger.

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) were swiftly notified about the alleged threats and the flight was scanned to ensure no explosives were on board.

AFP liaised with Philippines National Police to identify the man after the flight touched down in Manila, but he was still granted access into the country.

The man later returned to Australia in January 2025 and was met by AFP upon his arrival at Sydney airport.

He was charged with threatening aviation security and is expected to face the Downing Centre Local Court on Tuesday.

AFP Sydney Airport Police Commander Davina Copelin said threats to any flights, airlines or airports will be investigated.

“The AFP remains committed to the safety and security of all major Australian airports, irrespective of the crime type,” she said.

“The AFP provides an immediate response to any threat to the airport or airlines, including investigating and apprehending those offenders responsible.

“These matters are not taken lightly. Threats such as this can cause a substantial loss of resources and time for the airline, and the airport. It also jeopardises the safety of members of the public, airport workers and the authorities who need to investigate the incident thoroughly.”